Volvo XC60 Vs. Audi Q5 Vs. BMW X3: Side-by-Side SUV Comparison

If you're in the market for a SUV that cares deeply about your family, our Volvo XC60 vs. Audi Q5 vs. BMW X3 comparison will reveal which model prioritizes your comfort the most. Both the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 are excellent vehicles that boast incredible standard horsepower and torque values, but they aren't necessarily the best choice for technology. If you want convenience and comfort, as well as extraordinary plug-in hybrid value, then the Volvo XC60 is a must-try SUV.

DARCARS Volvo Cars Fairfax is proud to stock this compact SUV, but how does it hold up against other makes in the same market space? Let's explore the highlights of all three.

Volvo XC60 vs. Audi Q5 vs. BMW X3 at a Glance

  • While the 2025 Audi Q5 and BMW X3 have slightly more horsepower and torque standard, the Volvo XC60 provides the highest available specifications with its plug-in hybrid T8 engine.
  • The BMW X3 hides many features behind add-on packages. The Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60 are more open about trim levels and alternative grades.
  • In terms of cabin features, the Audi Q5 has exceptional front-seat comfort, the BMW X3 is a generically comfortable and high-tech model, and the Volvo XC60 has the best of both worlds
  • Safety is a priority across all three models, but the Volvo XC60 brings exceptional technology like Pilot Assist.
  • In 2026, the Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 have had very minor adjustments, which further push the value, safety, and customization advantages that the Volvo SUV already had.

2025 Model Comparison: Volvo XC60 vs. Audi Q5 vs. BMW X3

2025 Audi Q5 vs. Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Technical Specifications

Let's kick off our model comparison by taking a peek at how the three models stack up with their engines. When you buy a new Volvo XC60, you can expect a lower horsepower than the Audi Q5 or BMW X3. However, if you opt for the plug-in hybrid grade, you'll gain more horsepower and torque than the available engines for the Audi or BMW SUV.

2025 BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60 vs. Audi Q5 Trim Levels

We've taken a look under the hood of these three SUVs, but what else can you customize about them? The Audi Q5 comes in four body styles: the Q5, SQ5, Q5 Sportback, and SQ5 Sportback. Those body styles have three trim levels (Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige), making it somewhat difficult to find any specific combination of body type and feature lineup. The BMW X3 has the opposite problem: it doesn't have trim levels, instead moving all alternative features away into individual packages.

The Volvo XC60 has the best of both worlds. Rather than offering four grades, the Volvo XC60 is available in either mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions. But, it also has three trim levels – Core, Plus, and Ultra – that make selecting your preferred features straightforward.

2025 Audi Q5 vs. BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60 Technology & Cabin

What makes you want to climb trim levels or get add-ons? High-end technology and convenience features. The Audi Q5 and BMW X3 are extraordinary vehicles. Of the three, the BMW X3 hides the most behind additional paywalls, but you can get features like a panoramic moonroof, remote engine start, and a heated steering wheel once you start investing. The Audi Q5 has similar perks, including a Bang & Olufsen® sound system, ventilated front seats, and a 10.9-inch central touchscreen.

The Volvo XC60 boasts a similar array of standard and available features, but relishes in its unique Scandinavian style to craft a beautiful home away from home. For instance, where the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 are stuck with two- or three-zone climate control, the Volvo SUV can upgrade to a four-zone climate system, and their seats gain a power cushion extender.

2025 BMW X3 vs. Audi Q5 vs. Volvo XC60 Safety Features & Reliability

The last place we stop is for safety, a category in which all three SUVs excel. The highest-end trims and packages of the BMW X3, Audi Q5 Prestige, and Volvo XC60 Ultra models provide substantial safety considerations, such as Head-Up Displays, Surround View Camera Systems, and Lane Departure Warning. However, when you take our XC60 deals, you'll find one or two safety features that go beyond what the competition can bring. For instance, Volvo Pilot Assist brings uncontested peace of mind at any speed, thanks to the unique network of sensors that help protect you through every mile.

2026 Model Comparison: Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Differences

The Audi Q5 hasn't had its technical specs released for 2026, which means we can only talk about the Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 side-by-side. And the BMW SUV is no match. While it rolls into 2026 virtually unchanged, the Volvo XC60 model receives an 11.2-inch central touchscreen, new colors, and an updated infotainment software that make it feel more responsive than ever.

Even a dimension comparison showcases a victory for the Volvo SUV. These two models have the opposite pros and cons, as seen in our Volvo XC60 vs. Mazda CX-5 comparison. Although the BMW X3 has slightly more cargo volume, the Volvo XC60 is dominant in both front and rear legroom, with more than an inch of difference in both categories.

Summary

While the BMW X3 does have a powerful standard engine with good towing capacity and cargo space, the Volvo XC60 outdoes it in available horsepower and torque, legroom, standard and available features, and standard safety options.

See the Volvo XC60 at DARCARS Volvo Cars Fairfax

We conclude our Volvo XC60 vs. Audi Q5 vs. BMW X3 comparison by confirming that, if your priority is a high-value interior with dozens of excellent standard and available features, the Volvo XC60 is the clear choice. Alternatively, if you believe you'll need more room for vacations, camping trips, or to support your growing family, our Volvo XC60 vs. Volvo XC90 guide will walk through the benefits of the larger Volvo SUV. Then, our team in Fairfax, VA, will help you drive home in the perfect SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW X3 the same size as the Volvo XC60?

The BMW X3 is within the same size category as the Volvo XC60, but is slightly longer, at 187.2 inches vs. the Volvo XC60 at 185.4 inches. However, it won't feel like that when you climb inside the cabin. Boasting up to 36.3 inches in rear leg room, the BMW X3 feels cramped compared to the 38-inch rear legroom of the Volvo XC60.

Which is better, the Volvo XC60 or the BMW X3?

While both of these SUVs are very high-quality, the Volvo XC60 comes with more unique style features, a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and more advanced safety functionalities. For instance, the Volvo XC60 is the only model to have Volvo Pilot Assist on its Plus and Ultra trims, a feature not fully replicated on the BMW X3. The Volvo XC60 also has the unique crystal gear selector knob by Orrefors®.